This project looks to improve the quality of the shopping experience in Billingshurst through training in stock presentation, shop front enhancements and improvement in the quality of service to retail outlet customers.

Research Aims & Recommendations impacting on the project:

• Increase the use of, and spend on, commercial services (including shops, retail services like hairdressers/travel agents and cafes/restaurants) in Billingshurst Village Centre by catchment residents and users of non commercial services in the town.

• Increase the number of recreational visitors who come to Billingshurst and the surrounding villages, and their spending on commercial services and also improve the use of Billingshurst Village centre services by 'passing trade'.

• Build local loyalty and commitment to Billingshurst as a thriving centre for services, both from residents, traders and businesses.

• Support local businesses to grow, source locally, and trade with each other.

Actions:

These actions are based on the recommendation points in Appendix 2 of the

'Sustainable Service Provision Report' as follows:

1 Galvanise support and commitment from traders and landlords to a clear programme of action for the village centre, using this research, the emerging Chamber of Commerce and other business groups as a stimulus.

2 Improve the quality of retail offer, attractiveness of units and business quality through:

2.1 Training advice and support opportunities with traditional retail and innovative (e.g. web based) services.

2.2 Improved shop windows and shop fronts

2.3 Better window advertising and on-street advertising (e.g. highlighting local produce)

2.4 Local competitions/events with publicity to encourage some of the above.

Those organisations addressing the above action points:

• Chamber of Commerce

• Business Link
• H.D.C. Town Centres Manager
• Billingshurst Community Partnership

Estimated Cost of Project:

£22,000 (Does not included costs of Shop Window or Shop Front improvements (2.2 above) since these would be borne by the owner.)

 

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